2017 Presenter Backgrounds

Bruce Amacker - Turbo Training, Instructor, 1998-Present: Instructor and Trainer for PowerStroke/International Engines, School Bus Fleet Maintenance, ABS Braking Systems, Multiplexing, Automotive Fuel Control, and other topics across North America. His mastery of technology combined with 40 years of repair experience gives his programs a distinct hands-on approach. Fleet Plus, Owner and Operator, 1977-2003: In the same location for more than twenty years, Fleet Plus employed three full-time technicians under Mr. Amacker’s management, using state-of-the-art diagnostic and repair tools. Author of over 20 training manuals.

Nathan Banke - Nathan has been in the automotive industry for exactly half of his life, won competitions nationally for Canada and competed at the world level as an Automotive Service Technician. ASE Master certified, Red Seal endorsed, and having attended countless training seminars both as a technician and as a technical trainer he tries to stay on the bleeding edge of technology through a network of social media groups, forums, videos, internet searches and plain old tinkering in his home shop in downtown Québec. Since 2008, he has been involved with ConsuLab with a career path starting out as a technical trainer, moving to sales and to his current position as Director of Business Development where he leads a passionate team of salespeople. Having visited hundreds of schools across North America, spoken to over a thousand different instructors, and through studying the various educational markets, he has a unique perspective on technical training. Nathan is heavily involved in the development, marketing and sales of ConsuLab products and is always looking for next great new challenge. He is married and has a newborn son named Roméo.

Jim Bates - Aftermarket Technical Training Center Manager - Power Solutions, Johnson Controls. Host/Producer "The Battery Shop" and "Wrenchin' Up with Jim Bates" YouTube channels. Technical Training Specialist at Advance Auto Parts 15 years, Director of Technical Training at Wells VE 23 years, Technical Services Manager at Echlin/ACCEL 8 years. Thousands of hours training technicians on emissions controls, drivability diagnostics, hybrid vehicle service and start/stop technology.

Rod Boyes - Graduate of General Motors Institute in engineering, MBA & DBA degrees in Business from Michigan State University. Formerly, Professor at the University of Oklahoma, Department Chair at GMI, Director of GM Placement & College Relations, CFO of GMI, consultant to GM STG, and GM Youth Educational Systems. Presently President of Melior, Inc. Co-published a textbook on Electronic Computing.

Randy Briggs - Randy Briggs has spent his entire career in the automotive field. His experience spans dealerships, independent repair shops, community colleges, and national training companies. As Research and Development Center Manager for CARQUEST Technical Institute he shares this experience with students across the US and Canada.

Jason Bronsther - I have been an automotive instructor at the Western Quebec Career Centre (WQCC) for almost 15 years. The WQCC is a vocational training centre in the province of Quebec, Canada. The program is a ministry of education-funded program that allows students to attain their Vocational Diploma in Auto Mechanics. This diploma allows students to work anywhere within the province of Quebec. Most of my working automotive backgound is in the Japanese car market, specifically with Nissan. I spent 8 years working for Nissan and another 2 years working for Honda before entering the teaching profession. As a teacher I am currently enrolled at the University of Sherbrooke to gain my Bachelor of Education.

Daniel Brown - Daniel Brown started in Australia working as a Toyota technician and worked his way up to Master Diagnostic technician and workshop foreman before moving into automotive education with the Australian TAFE (Technical And Further Education) system teaching apprentices and trainees. He is now the manager of the LN Academy which conducts the customer training and curriculum alignment for Lucas-Nuelle products around the world. Daniel first had contact with Lucas-Nuelle as a customer at the college he was teaching at in Australia which then lead him to seek a career with the company in Germany.

Scott Brown - Scott Brown’s automotive career began after tech-school in the early 80’s. With a strong focus on engine performance and electronics, Scott began collaborating with other industry professionals on-line in the early 90’s. In 1992, he helped organize the first on-line automotive waveform databases on CompuServe. He later began a dial up bulletin board service for fellow automotive professionals. In 1993, he became an independent shop owner and since 1995, he has been an instrumental resource in the development of the largest on-line community of automotive service professionals, the International Automotive Technicians' Network - iATN, where he now serves as company president. Scott is an ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician, SAE member and a private pilot.

Jay M Buckley - ASE Master tech over 30 yrs Training Director at FRAM, Autolite. Formerly training director at Prestone,Luberfiner, Bendix Brakes Shop owner and technician 24 yrs Youtube channel with 2.4 million views and 5000 subscribers.

Virginia Catanese - Bachelor of Music in Education, University of Michigan Master of Arts in Humanities, Wayne State University, Detroit MI Diplomate in Arts Administration, Harvard University, School of Business Administration 34 years Faculty member/Lecturer, Department of Humanities, Wayne State University, 1974-2008 Consultant/Director, "Project Radius" Graduate Program in Education, Georgia State University Lecturer in Automobile History, MCCC, 1988 to Present, "Human Values, Technology and the Automobile": course developed by Presenter who received Teacher of the Year Award (1995) GM-ASEP.

Mike Christopherson - Over 25 years diagnostic and repair experience. ASE Master Automotive, L1, L2, L3, Alternative Fuels, Master Medium and Heavy Truck. Trainer for JS Products. Training in Tire Service and Diagnostics.

Peter Coll - Peter has been with Neutronics Inc. for 20+ years serving in several divisions with the past 17 being refrigerant related. Currently, he is the Vice President & Managing Director of Neutronics Refrigerant Analysis where his responsibilities include financial P&L, account management, education and industry leadership for both domestic and international business. Peter maintains an active relationship with many government regulatory agencies as well as Automotive OEM’s and Refrigerant producers providing expertise on refrigerant contamination, counterfeiting and identification. Peter is a current member of the MAC Partners Board of Directors and a former member of the MACS Board of Directors. He currently serves as Chairman of the SAE Interior Climate Control Service Committee and is a member of the SAE G21 Counterfeit Materials committee. In addition to his duties with Neutronics and SAE, he is a consultant to US government agencies, foreign government agencies and the United Nations Environment Program.

Jeff Curtis - I am currently an Instructor of Diesel Technology at Bellingham Technical College, located in the 'Forth Corner' of the (contiguous) United States, close to the Canadian border. I have attended many of the corporate schools relating to the heavy equipment and trucking industry. For the last 22 years I have committed most of my 'spare' time to the building of a work based learning program that will benefit 1) Industry 2) Students 3) College, while leading student exchange programs with a partner college in Denmark. This is a win/win partnership for all involved and has worked well over the years. My service to NACAT includes: past board member, board chair, VP and President. I was selected as the 2016 Vision Educator of the Year recipient in Kansas City and the 2013 Outstanding Faculty Award at BTC. My interests include spending time with my wife and children, volunteering in the community.

Michael Duff - Michael Duff M.S. Education Mary Grove University B.A. Technology/Industrial Education Eastern Michigan University 24 years of automotive teaching experience at High School and Community College levels ASE Automotive Master Certificated Technician Serves on number of NATEF Automotive Advisory Committees.

Tim Dwyer - Tim Dwyer is an automotive education specialist at ConsuLab Educatech, a manufacturer and provider of automotive training aids. After 25 years of ownership, he sold Superwrench Import Auto in Tulsa, OK to pursue a teaching career at Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology, where he helped start and instructed the Pro-Tech Automotive Internship program for 12 years. Tim has an AAS in automotive service technology, is an Accredited Automotive Manager (AAM), and a CMAT / L1 technician, as well as former board member of the North American Council of Automotive Teachers (NACAT). His passion to make a difference in the lives of future automotive technicians and instructors has led him to the Team-Based Learning strategy of instruction in order to help new automotive instructors make the transition from turning a wrench to teaching that craft. While most automotive instructors come from industry and have never actually taught before, Tim and ConsuLab strive to offer any assistance possible to help them teach technology!

Carl Dyke - Popular on YouTube’s Lunchbox Sessions channel, Carl Dyke is an award-winning educator from Alberta and the founder of CD Industrial Group (CDIG). For eighteen years Carl and his team have worked to produce the mini-simulations that get learners inside hydraulic systems, and to allow them to 'blow it up', safely, on-screen. Carl is a journeyman industrial mechanic and electronics technician who has provided training to thousands of heavy equipment/diesel technicians. With his B. Ed. in Industrial Education from the University of Manitoba and his hands-on upbringing in the sawmill industry, Carl has built the training aids that enable students to discover their own answers. Carl taught welding/fab and electronics/robotics to high school students during the nineties. Among other ambitious projects, his students built an excavator from scratch. Currently Carl serves as a contributing editor to Cleveland’s Fluid Power World magazine.

Rick Escalambre - Rick Escalambre earned his Bachelor of Arts in Industrial Arts from San Francisco State University. He taught full-time at Skyline College in San Bruno, CA for 31 years. As of June, 2015 he retired from full-time teaching and continues to teach part-time and do contract training. In addition to teaching Engine Performance related subjects, he coordinated one of the largest and finest automotive programs in the State of California. Rick previously taught high school automotive courses, managed a Chevron Service Station, owned and operated a general automotive repair business in Concord, CA. For nine years he was the Chairperson for the former Bureau of Automotive Repair Smog Check Education Advisory Committee. He is a past president and current newsletter editor for the California Automotive Teachers (CAT) Association. Currently, Rick is a member of the NASTF Education Committee. Skyline College’s facility, equipment, dynamometers and vehicles allowed him to conduct extensive in-depth research of OBD II System Operation & Diagnosis, and Evaporative Emission Systems. Rick is a respected author and editor of books in the field of Engine Performance, Evaporative Emission Systems, and Computer Controls. Rick’s goal is to provide information that will help teachers and technicians perform their respective jobs more effectively.

Matt Fanslow - Over 20 years in the independant automotive service and repair industry specializing in diagnostics and electrical/electronic service and repair on all make/all models. ASE CMAT/L1 as well as an ASE SME for A1-A8 and L1 exams.

Bob Feldmaier - Bob is the Director of the Center for Advanced Automotive Technology at Macomb Community College. Prior to joining the CAAT in August 2012, Bob was an independent automotive consultant advising companies such as ABB, Ecotality, and Ducker Worldwide. He also served as a Chief Engineer at Tesla Motors from October 2008 to July 2009 where he was responsible for Model S. Bob retired from Chrysler Corporation in 2008, where he was a Chief Engineer for 22 years. His responsibilities included total product and program management for his product lines, managing $1.5 billion in program spending. He led the electric vehicle program for three years, creating the EPIC minivan. Later as Minivan Chief Engineer, he led the Stow N’ Go seat program. In his last assignment, he put the first Chrysler hybrid electric vehicles into production. Bob also worked at Volkswagen for seven years. Bob holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Purdue University and an MBA from Wayne State University. Bob is on the Purdue Alumni Association Board of Directors. He is a Registered Professional Engineer and a member of the Society of Automotive Engineers. He serves on the Society of Automotive Engineers World Congress Banquet Committee and several electric vehicle committees. He sits on the Michigan Alliance for Greater Mobility Advancement Governing Board, the Macomb Community College Automotive Technology Advisory Board, the Wayne State University Technology School Industry Advisory Council, and the United Methodist Church Pension and Health Care Board.

Nick Goodnight - Nicholas Goodnight is an Instructor at Ivy Tech Community College Northeast, Indiana. He has over 16 years of experience in diagnosis, repair, and service management in a small independent repair facility. For the last 5 years, he has shared his passion for the way an engine operates with students in automotive education.

Alan Grant - Master of Arts, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, 1985 Life Teaching Credential, Single Subject Life Teaching Credential, Designated Subject, Vocational Automotive. 29 Years Automotive Instructor, Westlake High School, Westlake Village, CA 91360.

Michael Gray - Michael Gray, a former automotive teacher and CTE administrator, is the co-author and publisher of Auto Upkeep – a curriculum used by over 500 high schools, community colleges, technology centers, and universities throughout the United States and Canada. Mike has roots in the automotive service industry. He began diagnosing and fixing cars at a young age in his family’s service station. He grew up in International Falls, MN – The Icebox of the Nation – towing and jump-starting cars as soon as he obtained his driver’s permit. After graduating from St. Cloud State University (MN) with a Bachelor’s degree, he implemented and taught a basic car care program at the high school level. During work on his Master’s degree at Illinois State University (IL), he was a curriculum specialist on a National Science Foundation project where he co-authored ten integrated mathematics, science, and technology books designed for team teaching.

Jim Halderman - JIM HALDERMAN brings a world of experience, knowledge, and talent to his work. His automotive service experience includes working as a flat-rate technician, a business owner, and a professor of automotive technology at a leading U.S. community college for more than 20 years. Jim has presented numerous technical seminars to national audiences including the California Automotive Teachers (CAT) and the Illinois College Automotive Instructor Association (ICAIA) as well as a member and presenter at the North American Council of Automotive Teachers (NACAT).

Rodd Heacock - 19 Years of experience in technical training within General Motors. Developed and Instructed in all media types. Have spent the last few years developing and delivering global training. Part of the global training is teaching master trainers the content and how to deliver the course.

Dave Hobbs - Dave Hobbs is a team leader for technical training and training development at Delphi Product and Service Solutions. Dave’s experience spans 40 plus years in the industry as a line technician, service manager, technical college instructor, hotline adviser and radio host. In addition Dave has served as a field engineer and electronics systems instructor to Delco Electronics / Delphi engineers throughout North American and Asia. Dave writes for Motor Age Magazine, MACS Worldwide (Mobile AC Society) and is an instructor in over 30 training videos with Automotive Video Innovations (AVI). That experience adds up to plenty of practical knowledge to help automotive instructors, technicians, service advisors and shop owners keep up with changes in the automotive field.

Philip Jelinek - Phil Jelinek, who is now retired, is an award winning automotive instructor for over 26 years. He developed and implemented the first UC approved Automotive Physics (d-Lab Science) class and Automotive Engineering (g-Elective) class in California, there-by helping to save HS auto programs from extinction in that state. Three different years, he had teams attend the National New Car Competition in New York City, has been selected Teacher of the Year by three different organizations, and is currently a Board member and Past-President of the California Automotive Teachers Association.

Richard Kearns - Senior Technical Product Specialist – Federal Mogul Motorparts encompassing Wagner and Ferodo Brake Products, Moog Steering and Suspension, FelPro, Champion, Sealed Power, Speed-Pro and Anco. Assist training at the Technical Support Center based in St. Louis, MO. Rick’s primary responsibility is to conduct and develop classes for the curriculum in the automotive areas of Base Brakes and ABS, Steering and Suspension, Electrical and Ignition, Engine Machining and Assembly Rick joined Federal Mogul as a Technical Representative for the State of New York region in 1990. Rick was responsible for the development and implementation of training for the Moog Automotive groups encompassing Moog Suspension, Everco Heating and Air Conditioning and Precision U-Joint Rick relocated to St Louis MO from Rochester NY to become the Curriculum Training Manager for multiple F-M Training Classes in 1997. Rick started his career at a Chevrolet dealership as a line tech while working part time at an independent machine shop. He managed and was the lead mechanic for an independent repair shop in Rochester NY 1978 to 1990. Rick is a 1977 Graduate of the State University of New York at Alfred with a degree in Automotive Service Specialist. He has been A.S.E. Master certified since 1977 with Master Automobile Technician, L1, Master Engine Machinist and Master Heavy Duty Truck, and Undercar Specialist certification.

Nelson A. Kelly - Dr. Nelson A. Kelly is the Assistant Director of the Center for Advanced Automotive technology (CAAT) at Macomb Community College. He began at that position in October 2015. He also developed and taught three new courses as part of an Electric Vehicle Development Certificate program that began in January 2013 at Macomb Community College. Prior to that he was employed at General Motors Research and Development Center, working in the areas of environmental science, vehicle emissions, and renewable energy, including electrolytic hydrogen generation, storage, and dispensing to fuel cell electric vehicles. He has authored approximately 60 technical articles, 17 patents, and most recently, a book chapter on hydrogen production by water electrolysis. He received a Bachelor of Science degree from Miami University (Ohio) and a Ph. D. in chemistry from the Pennsylvania State University.

Ryan Kooiman - Ryan originally joined Standard Motor Products as a Technician Training Developer. Prior to that he was the lead tech/drivability specialist at a 20 bay independent shop in Michigan. He was the founder of West Michigan Auto Repair Society, chairman of the MI chapter of SAE, has attended numerous ASE test-writing workshops, and presented training at numerous conferences each year. Ryan also presented many of our PTS On-Demand webinars. In 2013, Ryan was promoted to manager of the PTS training group, and became Director of Training in late 2013. He now oversees the PTS program, as well as the work of our staff at our corporate training center in Irving Texas where we conduct hands on classes and train our sales force. Ryan is still ASE Master Certified and enjoys getting his hands dirty! It is with much passion for providing the best experience and information for the aftermarket technician that he does his job.

Dick Krieger - 36 years of full-time teaching experience with automotive service technology. Copyrighted author and technical writer. Worked with Jim Halderman as technical content editor. Have worked with ConsuLab for seven years as technical writer and trainer.

Sean Lannoo - Over 20 years in the automotive industry, ASE certified, and a TIA Advanced instructor. Presents and demonstrates VDO technology and replacement parts programs to professional installers and customers’ sales personnel throughout the United States & Canada. In 2015 I gave 56 training classes at technical colleges, 73 detail/hands on presentations at customers locations (i.e. parts houses, distributors, tire bays), and attended 17 industry trade shows.

Kevin Lekas - Kevin started his automotive career in the late 80’s as a Service Technician. After 16 years in the field, he accepted a position as a GM Training Center Instructor in Detroit, MI. He spent the next 7 years as a GM Training Center Instructor, 5 years in Curriculum Development, and 3 years as a Curriculum and then Training Center Manager. Kevin was an adjunct instructor at Macomb Community College. In 2016, Kevin joined ASE as Light Vehicle Test Development Manager. Kevin is active with SkillsUSA. He volunteered as a Regional Judge, state electrical competition Chair, and national competition Lead Judge. Kevin has been ASE certified for over 28 years and has earned multiple certifications including Master Automobile, Master Medium/Heavy Truck, and Advanced Level certifications.

Chuck Lynch - AERA Tech Specialist Chuck Lynch spent 20 years of his career at Jasper Engines in many roles, including process engineer. Chuck has an extensive background in quality auditing, and equipment & tooling training.

Edward Martin - I am an ASE Master Technician, Ford Senior Master Technician with 34 years of industry experience. I've spent most of my career sharing my knowledge with and learning from other technicians. I have a passion for developing new technicians that will one day be successful in the industry.

Rick Martineau - Rick Martineau is a Red Seal Endorsed Journeyman and ASE Master Automotive Service Technician. He has spent over 35 years in the automotive industry and 20 years of that teaching. Rick was the lead instructor for the GM ASEP program at SAIT in Calgary, Alberta. He is currently the Director of Education for ConsuLab providing training at several locations. Rick serves in several other roles as well being involved with Canadian Skills competitions at the regional, provincial, and national levels. Rick is a long-time member of NACAT and currently a member of the board of directors.

Ken Mays - Appointments 1990 until present: Professor of Automotive Technology, COCC, Bend, OR 1977-1991 Technician / Owner, Stan’s Automotive Service, Inc., Chula Vista, CA 1971-1998 Chief Petty Officer Anti-Submarine Warfare, United States Navy Reserve Synergistic Activities 2013 to present Secretary of Advanced Vehicle Training Group NW 1999 to present Program Director for Automotive Technology at Central Oregon Community College 1990 to present Ongoing curricular reform and implementation consistent with Automotive Technology at Central Oregon Community College. Developed degrees and certificates in the following areas: Associates of General Studies Master Automotive Technician Certificate AAS in Automotive Management AAS in Automotive Technology in Electronics and Diagnostics.

Jorge Menchu - Jorge is a nationally-recognized industry expert and president of AESwave.com. Jorge started his automotive career in the Temple TX High School auto shop program. While working as a technician in Fresno CA, he studied electronics. Eventually, Jorge found his way to the industry forefront by starting his company AESwave which was key in the pioneering personal sized oscilloscopes for use in automotive diagnostics. Jorge has designed numerous products and has been awarded 5 Motor Top 20 awards, Professional Tool & Equipment News Innovation Award, two UnderCar Digest Top 10 Tools awards. Over the years, Jorge has also written numerous articles for Motor, Import Service and PTEN that covered lab scope selection, waveform analysis, diagnostic strategies and wiring diagram analysis. In 2016, he was awarded a Trade Association Business Publications gold award for technical article.

Ken Miller - Ken Miller is the CDX Senior Account Manager for automotive and diesel programs.

Pam Oakes - • USAutoForensics.com, owner (2016-present) Litigious automotive expert witness service, secondary support • Contract automotive educator, Delphi Automotive Services, Troy Michigan (2016-present) • Contract automotive educator, Goodwill Industries of Southwest Florida (2015-present) Educating (classroom and shop setting) • Contract automotive educator/test proctor, Section 609 Mobile Air Conditioning Society (MACS) (2016-present) • USAutoTraining.org, executive director (2016-present) Educating (classroom and shop setting) • Gas Cap Grip, owner/patent owner/developer (2014-present) (GasCapGrip.Com) 12801 Commerce Lakes Drive, Suite 15, Fort Myers, FL 33913 Available online, select Ace Hardware locations. • Car Care Advocate/DIY Motor City, owner (2011-present) Consumer education publications, video and audio broadcasts.

Bill O'Neill - Bill began his career as an automotive technician. He progressed to be an Automotive High School Instructor, Field Service Engineer for Chevrolet Motor Division, Dealer Service Manager and GM Training Center Instructor. Then he went to the Corporate world as a Curriculum Developer for GM, Chrysler and Ford. He also earned his degree as a Mechanical Engineer and became a Quality Engineer for Ford Motor Company on their initial Airbag program.

Margaret M. O'Neill - Margaret O'Neill is a Michigan baby, born into the Auto Industry. Knowing she wanted to work in the Auto Industry when she grew up, she obtained a Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering from Marquette University. She began as a intern, co-op student, then went on to work full time for General Motors Corp. She was a Field Service Engineer on Automotive Electronics, a District Service Manager, and Reliability Engineer at GM. She moved onto Ford as a Supplier Quality Engineer, Serviceability Engineer, and ISO 9001 Supplier Evaluator. She left to build a computer hardware/software company. In 2015, she joined Electude to sell and implement Electude eLearning software in schools and businesses.

Hector Orlandi - Hector Orlandi, Autolite Technical Training Manager and Program Developer Master ASE instructor with over 30 years of experience at General Motors International field service engineer and technical instructor/program developer. Manager of ACDelco technical training development. Teach Automotive Technology at Michigan Technological Educational Centers, Kalamazoo Community College the Automotive Academy and Delta College, Manage develop and teach the Hybrid Electric Program and teach GM ASEP. Things I like at some point in my life, micro cars, vehicle fabrication and professional Acting.

Andrew Ouimet - I am the Associate Marketing Manager at Cengage that covers the Automotive discipline. I have been working on the Automotive list for the past 2+ years and am looking forward to showing off our new Automotive Theory simulations and other digital enhancements.

Stephen Pulcheon - I am an automobile technician with a fascination of automotive history. I was raised in a multi-line O.E.M. dealership, which included Chrysler, Plymouth, Dodge and Imports. I have been involved in all aspects of automotive service business. I joined Snap-on in 1992 as a Technical Representative (Tech Rep) where I was responsible for supporting 19 Snap-on franchisees (dealers) and 7 Industrial Representatives. During my 25-year career with Snap-on I have been fortunate to experience several different divisions. After my Tech Rep beginnings I worked overseas with the International group in Singapore, then with EDGE Diagnostics in California. I spent 9-years with Snap-on Diagnostics as a Product Specialist. Most recently (2007) I came to the Industrial Division/ Education group and enjoy the responsibility of supporting post secondary schools with diagnostic training. Some of the highlights of this educational involvement have been supporting SkillsUSA, Ford/AAA, CAT, SEMATA, NACAT and ACE. I am currently responsible for training automotive instructors in the navigation and application of Snap-on diagnostic tools.

Andrew A. Rezin, Ph.D. - PDr. Rezin has an extensive history in supervision in academia and in the automotive industry. His initial automotive experience came working for Chrysler Corporation and several large dealership groups. In 1993 he successfully transitioning to higher education fulfilling his passion to help to grow the technicians of tomorrow. This diverse experience gives him a unique perspective of the needs of students and instructors alike and the career paths that we are pursuing. Andy is the author of “Automotive Service Management: Principles into Practice” published by Pearson Higher Education and Emeritus Chair of Automotive and Applied Technologies at Columbus State Community College. He continues to be involved in teaching at the college while serving in his new role as the Director of the Midwest Hydrogen Center for Excellence housed at the Center for Automotive Research at The Ohio State University. Dr. Rezin earned his Masters Degree and Ph.D. in Education from from The Ohio State University.

Al Santini - Al Santini has been involved with automotive education for over 45 years. He has taught at the High School, Area Vocational, and Community College level. He has authored 8 automotive electricity/electronics textbooks with Cengage Learning. Al is currently a Technical Trainer with ConsuLab and a frequent contributor to NACAT over the years. All seminars given by Al are done with the philosophy of giving the participant something they can use tomorrow. Handouts are always provided by ConsuLab.

Keith Santini - Keith Santini is Automotive Coordinator for the MAST-certified program at Addison Trail High School, Illinois, as well as an ASE Advanced Level Specialist. He has taught automotive technology at the high school and college level for the last 18 years and has worked in the automotive industry for the last 25 years. He has also worked in independent repair facilities and as a consultant helping shop technicians with diagnostic problems. The child of a college automotive instructor and automotive textbook author, he has been immersed in the automotive industry since an early age.

Jean-Luc Sauriol - Jean-Luc Sauriol has over 30 years of experience working in the automotive industry. He has start is early career as a chief mechanic at the Spenard David Racing school, is passion for back engineering and helping people solving complex problem bring him to start the first mobile troubleshooting company in Montreal area called ‘’Diagno-Pro’’ • 1990 Graduated from Sherbrook University as an instructor teaching mechanics at college level to future automotive technicians • 1995 opened a Training center and a tech line • 2003 became the Director of the TechNet help line and Training Manager for Canada • 2006 Developed OBD3 Solutions EBRS Experience Base Repair Solutions that was acquire by ALLDATA in 2013 • Today Jean-Luc enjoy is new position as a Business Development Manager for ALLDATA

Skip Saurman - Skip Saurman is the President of Automotive Service Consultants, LLC and Educational Consultant for Megatech Corporation with a dedicated professional career path in education for the automotive industry. Following extensive experience in various automotive and heavy-duty truck dealerships, he taught in both high school and postsecondary Automotive Technology education while receiving a degree in Vocational Education Studies from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale. Skip has authored test questions for ASE (the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence); evaluated National Skill Standards and automotive technology programs as a NATEF ETL (the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation Evaluation Team Leader); performed a professional internship with American Honda Motor Company in Torrance, California; researched vocational education and apprenticeship training throughout Germany; designed and implemented Automotive Technology programs in the countries of Mexico and the Republic of Yemen. As the former Trade, Industrial and Technical Education Administrator for the New Mexico State Department of Education, he monitored instructional and leadership grant funding totaling more than a million dollars annually and provided technical assistance to high schools and postsecondary institutions around the state, including military and correctional facilities. His knowledge of Federal Carl Perkins (vocational education funding), legislative issues, and national programs and initiatives makes him a valuable resource to any instructor, educator and/or administrator. Skip’s primary mission has always been, and will continue to be, helping students and others through the improvement of effective automotive education.

Trish Serratore - Trish Serratore is the President of the National Automotive Technicians Education foundation (NATEF) and Automotive Youth Educational Systems (AYES) and Senior Vice President at ASE. She works closely with all of the organizations within the ASE Industry/Education initiative, which also includes ASE and the Automotive Training Managers Council (ATMC), to help provide the qualified automotive professionals the industry needs today and tomorrow. Before joining ASE, Trish was an account executive for Target Communications, a public relations/advertising agency in the Philadelphia area. Her career started at Motor Age Magazine, an industry trade journal, as the business editor. In 1994, Trish received the Automotive Hall of Fame’s Young Leadership and Excellence Award for outstanding achievements in the automotive industry. In 2000, Akzo Nobel selected her as one of the most influential women in the collision repair industry. In 2010, she was named one of the “Top 100 Women in the Automotive Industry” by Automotive News. She spends her free time with her family and their 1932 Hot Rod. .

Steve Smith - 45+ years in the automotive industry in all forms of business. National Sales Manager at Pro-Cut International for the past 10 years. Handling Educational Training on behalf of Pro-Cut for the past 8 years. We feel that our best value for educators is to provide them with the latest information from the automotive industry. Since we work very closely with all of the major OE manufacturers we have great insight of what is currently happening regarding brake systems.

Lake Speed, Jr. - I am a member of the Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers, and I hold the title of Certified Lubrication Specialist. I am also the son of former NASCAR driver Lake Speed. My background provides a blend of higher education and hands-on experience. I am also the head of technical development for Driven Racing Oil, which provides custom blended lubricants for Joe Gibbs Racing. Also, I've presented at several automotive trade schools in the past, so I do understand the requirements of presenting at a conference like this.

Jeff Starkey - Jeff Starkey has a passion for student learning and the ability of students to write and reflect on their learning. He has been a HD technician in various fleets and construction projects around the world.

Lyle Taylor - Lyle has over 40 years of experience in the automotive/diesel repair industry, 31 of those years as an ASE Master Certified Technician along with many A.S.E. Certifications, 7 years as a diesel technician, and 9 years as an automotive technician / independent shop owner. Lyle then started a career in education as an Automotive Technology Instructor at Grant Career Center in Bethel Ohio, then retiring from the classroom after 27 years of teaching in July of 2014. Lyle is presently employed with ATech Training in Walton Kentucky as their Instructor/Program Developer. This now giving him the opportunity to share and train other instructors in the automotive/diesel industry through-out the country.

Catherine Treanor - Cat Treanor began her motor vehicle career at Derby College and worked at a local Garage in the UK, for 3 years as a Motor Vehicle Apprentice. Following the completion of her apprenticeship, she worked for VW for nearly a year before being appointed the role of UK Business Development Manager with Electude, the world's leading automotive e-learning company. She has represented women in the industry at various events with the aim of providing a role model to encourage more girls into STEM subjects.

Craig Van Batenburg - Craig Van Batenburg is the CEO of ACDC, a hybrid and plug-in training company based in Worcester, Massachusetts. He has taught more hybrid classes in more places and for more people than any other instructor around, starting in early 2000. Some 15,000 techs and others have heard him speak in over seven countries and 46 States. He and his wife Deb offer management seminars internationally along with his many technical subjects. His style of training is down-to-earth, knowledgeable, and dynamic. To stay current with changes in automotive technology, he receives over 150 hours of training annually. Craig is a certified trainer with the Automotive Management Institute (AMI); a graduate of AMI with his Accredited Automotive Manager designation; member of SAE and the Automotive Service Association. He is a certified ASE Master Technician with advanced level (L1) and hybrid (L3) skills. Craig has been a tech all of his adult life, first at Japanese dealerships and then at his own Independent 'Japanese Only' repair shop. Craig's 45 years of experience will guarantee a very informative and entertaining session with something for everyone. Craig collects vintage Honda Cars and Motorcycles, plays the trombone, and is an Elton John Impersonator. He is most proud though of being a dad and helping foster kids. He can be reached at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Office number is 508 400-4656. www.fixhybrid.com is their website.

Deb Van Batenburg - Deb Van Batenburg is the support behind ACDC, a hybrid and plug-in training company based in Worcester, Massachusetts. She has taught alone and with Craig, her husband, for over 20 years. Deb often travels with Craig and assists in many classes. Deb is also a mother to two boys and a grandmother as well. Deb was married to Craig in 1989 and knows how to stay married to a busy shop owner. Deb offers management seminars and writes management articles for trade magazines. Growing up in Ohio and having a plumber for a Dad, Deb also knows her way around mechanical things. Her car of choice is a Nissan Leaf that never needs gas or a gas station. Every morning the tank is full as it charges on hydro power overnight. Deb was a full time teacher at Job Corps when the boys were old enough to not need a mother full time. Before that her career included restaurant management and greeting card design. Deb has a degree from Kent State and is also a graduate of AMI with her Accredited Automotive Manager designation. She is most proud of being a great mother and helping foster parents stay sane. She can be reached at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . ACDC office number is 508 400-4046. www.fixhybrid.com is their website.

Curt Ward - Curt Ward brings a wealth of talent, experience and knowledge to his work. Curt is an automotive professor at Joliet Junior College and serves as a visiting automotive instructor at Southern Illinois University. Curt is an active member in the Illinois Automotive Instructor Association (ICAIA) and the North American Council of Automotive Teachers (NACAT). He currently serves as the President of the NACAT organization. Previously he has served as the NACAT Secretary and was the Conference Host for the 2015 NACAT Conference. In 2015 Curt was named the NACAT MVP award winner for his outstanding contribution to the NACAT organization.

Darcy Wedel - Associate's Degree in Automotive Technology. Bachelor's Degree in Education. Community College Instructor utilizing Electude. Electude Business Development Manager for 8 years. Electude Sales Manager for 1 year.

James Wilson - James (Jim) Wilson James Wilson has over 40 years of experience as an ASE Master certified technician, dealership technician, fleet technician, and shop owner. He has experience as a trade school instructor teaching automotive and diesel technology. Wilson has worked for Allen Test Products, Bear Automotive, Target training and Mitchell International Seminars to name a few training companies. Later he formed his own training company; Auto Dynamics Ltd. Wilson worked in training and development for OTC/Bosch Automotive Service Solutions. He worked in sales and training technicians and instructors in the Midwest on equipment and diagnostics. He also traveled to Bogota, Columbia training Automotive Instructor from all over South America. James has moved to the training department of Bosch and is now a Sr. Training Instructor at Bosch as of April 2014. As A Sr. Instructor at Bosch, he helps to develop class material for the online portal and various projects for Bosch.

Steve Zack - Steve Zack has been Technical Instructor for OTC for 25 years, he is ASE L1 certified and is an US EPA certified Emission Master Instructor. He has been a technician and an instructor for most of his career with a short stint as a service engineer. Steve has traveled North America and internationally helping technicians understand how to use their electronic test equipment to diagnose difficult drivability issues using hands on approach. He has been published many times and has been featured in numerous diagnostic videos.

Last updated 15 June 2017.